PwC: IPO market showing signs of recovery

IPOs becoming more attractive, while companies who shelved floats planning a comeback

AFTER A sustained period of market uncertainty and volatility, the initial public offerings (IPO) market is showing signs of recovery.

PwC's IPO Watch Q1 2012 report found that a total of 58 IPOs raised €2.3bn on the European stock markets during the quarter compared to €0.9bn in Q4 2011 and €3bn in Q1 2011.

Although activity remains muted compared to historical levels, the prospects for future IPOs have been boosted by the encouraging trading of a number of recent issuers, and renewed market stability.

Mark Hughes, capital markets partner, PwC said: "A number of IPOs are pricing at the top end of their range and have generally performed well in the aftermarket, which can only be good news for those companies considering an IPO later in the year.

The Autumn Statement contained a surprise announcement that the "last 3 years" exemption for principal private residence relief will be reduced to 18 months for disposals on or after 6 April 2014. This article looks at how significant the change could be with a ‘back to basics' look at three situations which will be affected.